Display of respiratory data graphs on a ventilator graphical user interface

ABSTRACT

The disclosure describes improved systems and methods for configuring the layout of a graphical display in a ventilatory system. Specifically, the present methods provide a user interface for configuring one or more layout categories associated with data on the graphical display. Upon selection of a layout category, a clinician is provided with a preview of the layout of the layout category. The preview consists of one or more parameter positions. Each parameter position is associated with a parameter. The clinician is also provided with a listing of possible parameters. The parameter positions in the preview and the possible parameters in the listing are selectable elements. Once a parameter position is selected, a possible parameter can be chosen to replace the parameter associated with the selected parameter position. If this replacement is acceptable to the clinician, the clinician can access an accept button to implement the replacement in the graphical display.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/844,579, filed Jul. 27, 2010, and entitled “DISPLAY OF RESPIRATORY DATA GRAPHS ON A VENTILATOR GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE” now issued U.S. Pat. No. 8,499,252, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/287,914, filed Dec. 18, 2009, and entitled, “GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE FOR USE ON MEDICAL VENTILATOR” which applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

INTRODUCTION

A ventilator is a device that mechanically helps patients breathe by replacing some or all of the muscular effort required to inflate and deflate the lungs. A ventilator may be configured with various settings and parameters for proper delivery of respiratory support. Indeed, many of the settings and/or parameters typically must be configured and input by a clinician prior to ventilation. In fact, in many cases, clinicians may be required to repeatedly enter the same settings and parameters manually for each new patient because they are based on uniform protocols or other specifications.

DISPLAY OF RESPIRATORY DATA GRAPHS ON A VENTILATOR GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

The disclosure describes improved systems and methods for configuring the layout of a graphical display in a ventilatory system. Specifically, the present methods provide a user interface for configuring one or more layout categories associated with data on the graphical display. For instance, each layout category can be represented as a selection element in a layout configuration window. Upon selection of a layout category, a clinician is provided with a preview of the layout of the layout category. The preview consists of one or more parameter positions. Each parameter position is associated with a parameter. The clinician is also provided with a listing of possible parameters. The parameter positions in the preview and the possible parameters in the listing are selectable elements. Once a parameter position is selected, a possible parameter can be chosen to replace the parameter associated with the selected parameter position. If this replacement is acceptable to the clinician, the clinician can access an accept button to implement the replacement in the graphical display.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may recite ventilator user interfaces for configuring the layout of a graphical display in a ventilatory system. Specifically, a ventilator may be configured with a computer having a user interface including a graphical user interface for accepting commands and for displaying information. The user interface may comprise at least one window associated with the user interface and one or more elements within the at least one window. The one or more elements may further comprise a first set of selection elements for selecting a layout category, a second set of selection elements for indicating a parameter position, and a third set of selection elements for indicating a replacement parameter for the parameter position. The first set of selection elements may further comprise a tab for selecting a patient data layout category, a tab for selecting a big numbers layout category, and a tab for selecting a charts layout category. The second set of selection elements may include a preview of the currently displayed parameter on the graphical display for each parameter position. The third set of selection elements may further comprise a listing of possible parameters for selection of the replacement parameter.

These and various other features as well as advantages which characterize the systems and methods described herein will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description and a review of the associated drawings. Additional features are set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the technology. The benefits and features of the technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawing figures, which from a part of this application, are illustrative of described technology and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention as claimed in any manner, which scope shall be based on the claims appended hereto.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an exemplary ventilator connected to a human patient.

FIG. 2 is a block-diagram illustrating an embodiment of a ventilatory system having a user interface for configuring layout of the graphical display.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface for configuring layout settings for a “Patient Data” parameter.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface for interface for configuring layout settings for a “Big Numbers” parameter.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface displaying an expanded “Big Numbers” parameter window.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface for interface for configuring layout settings for a “Charts” parameter.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an embodiment of a graphical display providing a selected “Charts” view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although the techniques introduced above and discussed in detail below may be implemented for a variety of medical devices, the present disclosure will discuss the implementation of these techniques for use in a mechanical ventilator system. The reader will understand that the technology described in the context of a ventilator system could be adapted for use with other therapeutic equipment having user interfaces, including graphical user interfaces (GUIs), for prompt startup of a therapeutic treatment.

This disclosure describes systems and methods for configuring the layout of a graphical display in a ventilatory system. Specifically, embodiments may provide a user interface, including a graphical user interface or other display interface, for configuring the layout of the graphical display. A layout configuration window may provide one or more layout categories for configuration. For instance, the ventilator may provide a clinician with an input element for selecting a layout category describing “Patient Data”. Upon selecting the “Patient Data” layout category, a preview of the “Patient Data” parameters that are visible on the graphical display may appear in the layout configuration window. Below the preview, a listing of possible parameters that may replace the parameters in the preview are presented. In one embodiment, the listing is only visible once a parameter has been selected from the preview. Thereafter, when the clinician selects a replacement “Patient Data” parameter for a given position in the “Patient Data” parameter preview, a preview of the “Patient Data” parameters including the replacement “Patient Data” parameter is generated. If the layout configuration is acceptable to the clinician, the clinician may implement the preview as the configuration of the underlying graphical representation.

Alternatively, the layout configuration window may provide a clinician with an input element for selecting layout categories describing “Big Numbers” and “Charts”. Again, the clinician may utilize the preview and listing of possible parameters to generate a new layout configuration for “Big Numbers” and/or “Charts”. Additional input elements may also be provided within the spirit of the present invention.

As such, the present disclosure provides an institution or clinician with optimal control over routine ventilatory settings. Specifically, routine layout configuration settings may be preconfigured according to a hospital-specific, clinic-specific, physician-specific, or any other appropriate protocol. Moreover, layout configuration settings may be changed and edited in response to a particular patient's changing needs and/or condition.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a ventilator connected to a human patient 150. The ventilator includes a pneumatic system 102 (also referred to as a pressure generating system 102) for circulating breathing gases to and from patient 150 via the ventilation tubing system 130, which couples the patient to the pneumatic system via an invasive patient interface (e.g., endotracheal tube).

Ventilation tubing system 130 may be a two-limb (shown) or a one-limb circuit for carrying gas to and from the patient 150. In a two-limb embodiment as shown, a fitting, typically referred to as a “wye-fitting” 170, may be provided to couple the patient interface to an inspiratory limb 132 and an expiratory limb 134 of the ventilation tubing system 130.

Pneumatic system 102 may be configured in a variety of ways. In the present example, system 102 includes an expiratory module 108 coupled with the expiratory limb 134 and an inspiratory module 104 coupled with the inspiratory limb 132. Compressor 106 or other source(s) of pressurized gases (e.g., air, oxygen, and/or helium) is coupled with inspiratory module 104 to provide a gas source for ventilatory support via inspiratory limb 132.

The pneumatic system may include a variety of other components, including sources for pressurized air and/or oxygen, mixing modules, valves, sensors, tubing, accumulators, filters, etc. Controller 110 is operatively coupled with pneumatic system 102, signal measurement and acquisition systems, and an operator interface 120 that may enable an operator to interact with the ventilator (e.g., reset alarms, change ventilator settings, select operational modes, view monitored parameters, etc.). Controller 110 may include memory 112, one or more processors 116, storage 114, and/or other components of the type commonly found in command and control computing devices.

The memory 112 is computer-readable storage media that stores software that is executed by the processor 116 and which controls the operation of the ventilator. In an embodiment, the memory 112 includes one or more solid-state storage devices such as flash memory chips. In an alternative embodiment, the memory 112 may be mass storage connected to the processor 116 through a mass storage controller (not shown) and a communications bus (not shown). Although the description of computer-readable media contained herein refers to a solid-state storage, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that computer-readable storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by the processor 116. Computer-readable storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer-readable storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other solid state memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer.

As described in more detail below, controller 110 may monitor pneumatic system 102 in order to evaluate the condition of the patient and to ensure proper functioning of the ventilator based on various parameter settings. The specific parameter settings may be based on preconfigured settings applied to the controller 110, or based on input received via operator interface 120 and/or other components of the ventilator. In the depicted example, operator interface 120 includes a display 122 that is touch-sensitive, enabling the display to serve both as an input and output device.

FIG. 2 is a block-diagram illustrating an embodiment of a ventilatory system having a user interface for efficiently and uniformly configuring layout of the graphical display.

The ventilator 202 includes a display module 204, memory 208, one or more processors 206, user interface 210, and ventilation module 212. Memory 208 is defined as described above for memory 112. Similarly, the one or more processors 206 are defined as described above for the one or more processors 116.

Ventilation module 212 may oversee ventilation according to appropriate parameter settings preconfigured according to any suitable protocol or specification. Alternatively, ventilation module 212 may oversee ventilation for a patient according to custom ventilatory settings, as determined appropriate by a clinician or institution and as manually input via user interface 210, or otherwise. For example, ventilation module 212 may monitor and regulate pressure delivery by any suitable method, either currently known or disclosed in the future, according to pressure parameter settings. Specifically, ventilation module 212 may be in communication with pneumatic system 102, including inspiratory module 104 coupled with inspiratory limb 132, and with compressor 106 or other source(s) of pressurized gases (e.g., air, oxygen, and/or helium). Compressor 106 may be coupled with inspiratory module 104, to provide a gas source for delivering air pressure via inspiratory limb 132. Ventilation module 212 may also be in communication with the layout module 214 to configure layout settings for the ventilatory parameters.

The display module 204 presents various input screens and displays to a clinician, including but not limited to one or more layout configuration screens, as will be described further herein, for configuring the layout of the display. The display module 204 is further configured to communicate with user interface 210. The display module 204 may provide a graphical user interface (GUI), providing various windows and elements to the clinician for input and interface command operations. User interface 210 may accept commands and input through display module 204 and may provide setup options to the clinician through a GUI on display module 204. Display module 204 may further be an interactive display, whereby the clinician may both receive and communicate information to the ventilator 202, as by a touch-activated user interface. Alternatively, user interface 210 may provide other suitable means of communication with the ventilator 202, for instance by a keyboard or other suitable interactive device.

The layout configuration options provided to the clinician through the user interface may include, among others, options for configuring the graphical display. Specifically, the user interface may allow a clinician to manually configure the layout for various layout categories encompassing one or more ventilatory parameters for presentation on the graphical display. Alternatively, the layout configuration settings can be initially established to reflect protocol-specific parameter layout settings. As such, layout module 214 may accept input values from a clinician for configuring the various layout modules 216-218. Layout module 214 may further be in communication with ventilation module 212. For instance, layout module 214 may communicate parameter configuration settings to ventilation module 212 such that the ventilator may properly monitor and regulate various parameters associated with the respiration of a patient. As noted above, layout module 214 may receive manual settings as input from user interface 210, e.g., via a graphical user interface.

Layout module 214 may also include layout modules 216-218. Layout modules 216-218 may each be associated with a particular layout category. Such layout categories may include, but are not limited to, “Patient Data”, “Big Numbers”, and “Charts”. Layout Modules 216-218 are provided for exemplary purposes only and any number of useful layout modules representing any number of interesting and useful layout categories may be provided.

Layout module 214 may include a preview module 216 for generating a preview of current parameter selections for the layout category. For example, as can be seen in FIG. 3, the current parameters for the “Patient Data” layout category are “V_(TE)” 322, “PEEP” 324, “V_(MAX)” 326, “V_(ESPONT)” 328, and “V_(TI)” 330. The “V_(MAX)” parameter 326 is included in this preview because it has been selected as a replacement parameter, as will be described below. If no replacements parameters have been selected, the preview module 216 will generate a preview that includes the parameters currently visible in the graphical display, as in FIG. 6.

Layout module 214 may also include a possible parameters module 218 for generating a listing 350 of possible parameters to replace the current parameters in a given layout category. For example, as can be seen in FIG. 3, the listing 350 of possible parameters includes “V_(E SET)”, “V_(E SPONT)”, “V_(E TOT)”, “V_(MAX)”, and “V_(SENS)” 352-360. The possible parameter module 218 also generates a concise description 362-370 to accompany each possible parameter 352-360. For example, in FIG. 3, the “V_(MAX)” 358 parameter is accompanied by a concise description of “Peak flow” 368. Included in this concise description 368 is an indication of whether the possible parameter is a parameter currently visible in the graphical display or if the possible parameter is a new parameter to the graphical display. In FIG. 3, the currently displayed “V_(E TOT)” parameter 356 includes the word “current” in its concise description 366. In addition, the selected “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 includes the word “new” in its concise description 368 as the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 has been selected for that parameter position. The selection is indicated by a bold border. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any method of indicating selection can be utilized, including but limited to, changing the background color, changing the border, changing the font, or any other method known in the art. If a new parameter has not been selected, then the current parameter will be indicated as selected (not depicted).

For the selected parameter, the possible parameter module 218 also generates a detailed description box 374 of the selected parameter. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 is selected. The detailed description box 374, therefore, includes a detailed description of the selected “V_(MAX)” parameter 358.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface 300 for modifying layout configuration settings for the graphical display.

Layout user interface may be accessed via any suitable means, for example via a main ventilatory user interface on display module. As illustrated, layout configuration user interface may provide one or more windows for display and one or more elements for selection and/or input. Windows may include one or more elements and, additionally, may provide graphical displays, instructions, or other useful information to the clinician. Elements may be displayed as buttons, tabs, icons, toggles, or any other suitable visual access element, etc., including any suitable element for input selection or control.

According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, layout configuration interface may include layout configuration window 300. Layout configuration window 300 includes a switch button 302 depicted in the upper left hand corner of the layout configuration window 300. When the switch button 302 is accessed, the layout configuration window 300 switches to the graphical display 700 illustrated in FIG. 7.

Layout configuration window 300 also includes a transparency button 304 and a pin-up button 306. When the transparency button 304 is accessed, the layout configuration window 300 may be viewed simultaneously with other data displayed on the graphical display 700, or other user interface. When the pin-up button 306 is accessed, the layout configuration window 300 may remain open unless and until a clinician desires to close the layout configuration window 300 by accessing the “Accept” button 376. Otherwise, the window 300 may close automatically after some period of inactivity. When the layout configuration window 300 is pinned, the changes will be implemented, but the layout configuration window 300 will not be closed.

Layout configuration window 300 also includes a “Defaults*” button 308. When the “Defaults*” button 308 is accessed, the layout configuration settings are reset to ventilator factory settings or institutional settings, if institutional settings are available.

Layout configuration window 300 also includes a cancel button 310. When a clinician decides not to modify the layout configuration settings for the graphical display, the clinician may select the cancel button 310 to exit the layout configuration window 300.

Layout configuration window 300 may also include a visual indication button 376. Visual indication button 376 visually indicates the function of the layout configuration window 300.

Layout configuration window 300 displays tabs 312-316 on the left hand side. The tabs 312-316 represent different layout categories. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any number of tabs can be utilized on the layout configuration window 300. In the present embodiment, three tabs are displayed. The three tabs represent the following layout categories: “Patient Data” 312, “Big Numbers” 314, and “Charts” 316. A clinician can display layout information associated with a layout category by selecting the appropriate layout category tab on the layout configuration window 300. The layout configuration window 300 depicts an embodiment in which the “Patient Data” tab 312 has been selected for display.

When the “Patient Data” tab 312 is selected, as depicted in layout configuration window 300, the current “Patient Data” parameters 322-330 and 386-392 are displayed on preview toolbar 320. The “Patient Data” parameters 322-330 and 386-392 in the layout configuration window 300 correspond to the “Patient Data” parameters 340-348 and 378-384, respectively, displayed in the upper right hand corner of the underlying graphical display 700. The “Patient Data” parameters 340-348 and 378-384 in the underlying graphical display 700 correspond to real-time measurements of the patient. For example, the “V_(ETOT)” parameter 344 reflects the exhaled minute volume of the patient.

Unlike the “Patient Data” parameters 340-348 and 378-384 in the underlying graphical display 700, the “Patient Data” parameters 322-330 and 386-392 in the layout configuration window 300 do not include actual patient data. In the depicted embodiment, the preview toolbar 320 shows nine current “Patient Data” parameters 322-330 and 386-392, each “Patient Data” parameter 322-330 and 386-392 occupying one position of the nine allotted “Patient Data” parameter positions 320A-320I. As will be appreciated, the preview toolbar 320 can have any number of allotted “Patient Data” parameter positions 320A-320I. In one embodiment, there is a scrollbar 332 below the preview toolbar 320. When the scrollbar 332 is slid to the right one position, each displayed “Patient Data” parameter 322-330 and 386-392 is displaced one position to the left, the left most “Patient Data” parameter disappears from view, and a new “Patient Data” parameter fills the right most position. The scrollbar 332 can be moved to the right until a final “Patient Data” parameter fills the right most “Patient Data” parameter position. The scrollbar 332, therefore, allows a clinician to monitor various “Patient Data” parameters without occupying excessive space on the GUI.

In the depicted embodiment, the current “Patient Data” parameter positions in the underlying graphic display are occupied by “P_(Peak)” 378, “P_(Mean)” 380, “I:E” 382, “f_(TOT)” 384, “V_(TE)” 340, “PEEP” 342, “V_(E TOT)” 344, “V_(ESPONT)” 346 and “V_(TI)” 348. The layout configuration window, however, displays a preview toolbar 320 with “Patient Data” parameter positions occupied by “P_(Peak)” 392, “P_(Mean)” 390, “I:E” 388, “f_(TOT)” 386, “V_(TE)” 322, “PEEP” 324, “V_(MAX)” 324, “V_(ESPONT)” 326, and “V_(TI)” 328. The “V_(MAX)” parameter 326 is the replacement “Patient Data” parameter. The replacement “Patient Data” parameter will be described in detail below.

Below the preview toolbar 320 (and the scrollbar 332) is a listing 350 of possible “Patient Data” parameters 352-360, each possible “Patient Data” parameter 352-360 accompanied by a concise description 362-370. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any number of possible “Patient Data” parameters can be included in the listing 350. In the exemplary layout configuration window 300, five possible “Patient Data” parameters are displayed: “V_(E SET)” 352, “V_(E SPONT)” 354, “V_(E TOT)” 356, “V_(MAX)” 358, and “V_(SENS)” 360. Additional “Patient Data” parameters can be displayed by accessing the scrollbar 372 to the right of listing 350. As depicted, each possible “Patient Data” 352-360 parameter is accompanied by a concise description 362-370. For example, the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 is accompanied by a concise description of “Peak flow” 366. In one embodiment, the listing 350 is not displayed until a “Patient Data” parameter 322-330 and 386-392 is selected.

The listing 350 also indicates which possible “Patient Data” parameter is currently occupying a selected “Patient Data” parameter position. For example, the seventh “Patient Data” parameter position 320G on the toolbar 320 is currently selected. The selection is indicated by a bold border. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any method of indicating selection can be utilized, including but limited to, changing the background color, changing the border, changing the font, or any other method known in the art. In the exemplary layout configuration window 300, the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 344 is currently occupying the seventh “Patient Data” parameter position. This occupation can be seen in the “Patient Data” parameters of the underlying graphical display. When a possible “Patient Data” parameter currently occupies the selected “Patient Data” parameter position of the underlying display, the concise description of the possible “Patient Data” parameter includes the word “current.” For example, the concise description 366 of the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 352 in the listing 350 includes the word “current.”

The listing 350 also indicates which possible “Patient Data” parameter has been selected to replace the current “Patient Data” parameter occupying the selected “Patient Data” parameter position. As depicted in layout configuration window 300, the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 was selected to replace the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 344 in the seventh “Patient Data” parameter position 320G. Since “V_(MAX)” 358 is the new parameter in the seventh “Patient Data” parameter position 320G, the concise description 368 of the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358 in the listing 350 includes the word “new”.

The layout configuration window 300 also includes a box for a detailed description 374 of the selected replacement “Patient Data” parameter 358 in the listing 350. As discussed above, the selected replacement “Patient Data” parameter in the exemplary layout configuration window 300 is the “V_(MAX)” parameter 358. Likewise, the detailed description box 374 includes a detailed description of the “V” parameter 358.

When a “Patient Data” parameter has been selected the replace the current “Patient Data” parameter occupying the selected “Patient Data” parameter position, the replacement “Patient Data” parameter is displayed as occupying the selected “Patient Data” parameter position in the preview toolbar of the layout configuration window 300. In the exemplary layout configuration window 300, the “V” parameter 326 is displayed in the preview toolbar 320 as occupying the selected seventh “Patient Data” parameter position 320G.

The layout configuration window 300 also includes an Accept button 376. When a clinician is satisfied with the layout of the “Patient Data” parameters in the preview toolbar 320, the clinician may access the Accept button 376. Once the Accept button 376 has been accessed, the “Patient Data” parameters 322-330 and 386-392 occupying the preview toolbar 320 will be reflected as the “Patient Data” parameters 340-348 and 378-384 in the underlying graphical display 700 (not depicted). The actual patient data of the new “Patient Data” parameter will then be displayed in the underlying graphical 700 (not depicted).

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface for modifying layout configuration settings for the graphical display. In FIG. 4, layout configuration window 400 depicts an embodiment in which the “Big Numbers” layout category 402 has been selected for display.

The layout configuration information in the “Big Numbers” tab 402 corresponds to the “Big Numbers” parameters “Big Numbers” window 500. In one embodiment, the “Big Numbers” window 500 is accessed by pulling down pull down arrow 414. By accessing the pull down arrow 414, the clinician can view the “Big Numbers” parameters positions in the “Big Numbers” window 500 as seen in FIG. 5. As will be described below, modifying the layout configuration settings using the “Big Numbers” tab 402 of the layout configuration window 400 changes the layout of the “Big Numbers” window 500.

Returning the FIG. 4, the “Big Numbers” tab 402 includes a preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” window 500. The preview 416 displays the available “Big Numbers” parameter positions 416A-416O and the current “Big Numbers” parameters occupying those positions 420-448. Like the “Patient Data” parameter preview toolbar 320, the preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” 500 window includes the replacement “Big Numbers” parameter. The replacement “Big Numbers” parameter will be discussed in detail below.

Underneath the preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” window 500 is a listing 450 of possible “Big Numbers” parameters 452-460, each possible “Big Numbers” parameter 452-460 accompanied by a concise description 462-470. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any number of possible “Big Number” parameters can be included in the listing 450. In the exemplary layout configuration window 400, five possible “Big Numbers” parameters are displayed: “V_(E SET)” 452, “V_(E SPONT)” 454, “V_(E TOT)” 456, “V_(MAX)” 458, and “V_(SENS)” 460. Additional “Big Numbers” parameters can be displayed by accessing the scrollbar 472 to the right of the listing 450. As depicted, each possible “Big Numbers” parameter 452-460 is accompanied by a concise description 462-470. For example, the “V_(E SPONT)” parameter 454 is accompanied by a concise description of “Exhaled spontaneous minute volume” 464. In one embodiment, the listing 450 is not visible until a “Big Numbers” parameter 420-448 is selected from the preview 416.

The listing 450 also indicates which possible “Big Numbers” parameters are currently occupying a selected “Big Numbers” parameter position. For example, the “Big Numbers” parameter position 416F (directly underneath the “C”) in the preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” window 500 is currently selected. The selection is indicated by a bold border. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any method of indicating selection can be utilized, including but limited to, changing the background color, changing the border, changing the font, or any other method known in the art. In the exemplary layout configuration window 400, the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 456 is currently occupying the “Big Numbers” parameter position directly underneath the “C” in the preview 416. This occupation can be seen in the “Big Numbers” window 500 of the underlying graphical display as the “V_(E TOT)” parameter is currently occupying the position 512 under the “C”. When a possible “Big Numbers” parameter occupies the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position, the concise description of the possible “Big Numbers” parameter includes the word “current.” In the exemplary layout configuration window 400, the concise description 466 of the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 456 includes the word “current.”

The listing 450 also indicates which possible “Big Numbers” parameter has been selected to replace the current “Big Numbers” parameter occupying the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position. As depicted in layout configuration window, the “V_(SPONT)” 454 parameter was selected to replace the “V_(E TOT)” parameter 456 in the “Big Number” parameter position 461F underneath the “C” in the preview of the “Big Numbers” window 416. Since “V_(SPONT)” 454 is the new parameter in the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position 416F, the concise description 464 of the “V_(SPONT)” parameter 454 in the listing 450 includes the word “new”.

The layout configuration window 400 also includes a box 474 for a detailed description of the “Big Numbers” parameter that has been selected to replace current “Big Numbers” parameter occupying the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position. As discussed above, the selected replacement “Big Numbers” parameter in the exemplary layout configuration window 400 is the “V_(E SPONT)” parameter 454. Likewise, the detailed description box 474 includes a detailed description of the “V_(E SPONT)” parameter 454.

When a “Big Numbers” parameter has been selected the replace the current “Big Numbers” parameter occupying the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position, the replacement “Big Numbers” parameter is displayed as occupying the selected “Big Numbers” parameter position in the preview 416 in layout configuration window 400. In the exemplary layout configuration window 400, the “V_(E SPONT)” parameter 454 is displayed in the preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” 500 window as occupying the selected “Big Numbers” parameter 416F position (below the “C”) in the preview 416.

The layout configuration window 400 may also include an Accept button (not depicted). When a clinician is satisfied with the layout of the “Big Numbers” parameters in the preview 416, the clinician may access the Accept button (not depicted). Once the Accept button (not depicted) has been accessed, the “Big Numbers” parameters occupying the preview 416 of the “Big Numbers” window 500 will be reflected as the “Big Numbers” parameters in the “Big Numbers” window 500 (not depicted). The actual patient data of the new “Big Numbers” parameter will then be visible in the underlying graphical display 700 (not depicted).

As depicted in layout configuration window 400, a clinician can select a replacement “Big Number” parameter that is already present on the “Big Number” window 500. For example, the “V_(ESPONT)” parameter 514 is already located in the second row, fourth position from the left in the “Big Number” window 500. The clinician has also selected the “V_(ESPONT)” parameter 454 to occupy the “Big Number” parameter position 512 in the second row, first position from the left in the “Big Number” window 500 (not depicted). While such a replication is allowed, the clinician may be alerted that he has selected a duplicate “Big Number” parameter 476. If this is acceptable to the clinician, the clinician may access the “Accept ALL” button 478 to implement the changes the “Big Number” window 500. Like the “Accept” button (not depicted), accessing the “Accept ALL” button 478 causes the “Big Numbers” parameters in the “Big Numbers” window 500 to mirror the preview 416. The actual patient data of the new “Big Numbers” parameter will then be displayed in the underlying graphical display.

FIG. 5 depicts an expanded “Big Numbers” window 500. As discussed above, the expanded “Big Numbers” window can be displayed by accessing the pull down arrow 702 under the “Big Numbers” parameters in the upper left hand corner of the graphical display 700. The expanded “Big Numbers” window displays enlarged actual patient data for various “Big Numbers” parameters 502-530. The layout configuration of the “Big Numbers” parameters 502-528 is determined by a clinician using the layout configuration window 400.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface for modifying layout configuration settings for the graphical display. In FIG. 6, layout configuration window 600 depicts an embodiment in which the “Charts” tab 602 has been selected for display.

The “Charts” tab 602 includes a preview 604 of the “Charts” views. The preview 604 corresponds to the chart configuration of the underlying graphical display 700. As can be seen in FIG. 7, the five available “Charts” views of the exemplary layout configuration window correspond to the five available views 704-712 in the underlying graphical display 700.

The preview 604 of the “Charts” views displays the available “Charts” view positions and the current “Charts” view occupying those positions. Like the “Patient Data” parameter preview toolbar and preview of the “Big Numbers” window, the preview of the “Charts” views includes the replacement “Charts” view. The replacement “Charts” view will be discussed in detail below.

The exemplary layout configuration window 600 provides five different “Charts” views 604A-604E in the preview 604. In the exemplary layout configuration window 600, the first view 604A is a single chart occupying the entire area for charts in the graphical display. The second view 604B consists of two charts, horizontally stacked on top of one another, and equally splitting the area for charts in the graphical display. The third view 604C consists of three charts, horizontally stacked on top of one another, and equally splitting the area for charts in the graphical display. The fourth view 604D consists of five charts. One chart is larger than the others and is arranged horizontally on top of the other charts. The other four charts split the remaining area for charts below the larger chart in the graphical display. The four charts are arranged in rows of two and one row is stacked on top of the other row. The fifth view 604E consists of three charts. One chart is larger than the others and is arranged horizontally on top of the other charts. The other two charts split the remaining area for charts below the larger chart in the graphical display. The two charts are arranged in a row next to one another. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, any number of “Charts” views can be displayed. Furthermore, the number and arrangement of charts in each individual view can also vary.

Underneath the preview 604 of the “Charts” view is a listing 606 of possible “Charts” view parameters 608-616, each possible “Charts” view parameter accompanied by a concise description 618-626. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any number of possible “Charts” view parameters can be included in the listing 606. In the exemplary layout configuration window 600, five possible “Charts” parameters are displayed: “f” 608, “f_(TOT)” 610, “P_(CIRC)” 612, “P_(I)” 614, and “P_(I END)” 616. Additional “Charts” view parameters can be displayed by accessing the scrollbar 628 to the right of the listing 606. As depicted, each possible “Charts” view parameter is accompanied by a concise description. For example, the “P_(CIRC)” parameter 612 is accompanied by a concise description of “Circulatory pressure” 622

The listing 606 also indicates which possible “Charts” view parameters are currently occupying a selected “Charts” view parameter position. For example, the largest “Charts” view parameter position in the fourth “Charts” view 604D from the left is currently selected. The selection is indicated by a bold border. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any method of indicating selection can be utilized, including but limited to, changing the background color, changing the border, changing the font, or any other method known in the art. In the exemplary layout configuration window 600, the “P_(CIRC)” parameter 612 is currently occupying the largest “Charts” view position in the fourth “Charts” view 604D from the left. This occupation can be seen in the exemplary graphical display 700. When a possible “Charts” view parameter occupies the selected “Charts” view parameter position, the concise description of the possible “Charts” view parameter includes the word “current,” As depicted, the “P_(CIRC)” parameter 612 includes the word “current” in its concise description 622.

The layout configuration window 600 also includes a box 630 for a detailed description of the “Charts” view parameter selected in the listing. In the exemplary layout configuration window 600, the “Charts” view parameter selected in the listing 606 is the same parameter as is currently occupying the selected “Charts” view parameter position in the preview 604. As the “P_(CIRC)” parameter 612 is selected in the listing, the detailed description box 630 includes a detailed description of the “P_(CIRC)” parameter 612.

As with the “Patient Data” tab and the “Big Numbers” tab, the currently selected “Charts” view parameter in the preview 604 can be replaced with a new “Charts” view parameter. When a “Charts” view parameter has been selected from the listing 606 to replace the current “Charts” view parameter occupying the selected “Charts” view parameter position, the replacement “Charts” view parameter is displayed as occupying the selected “Charts” view parameter position in the preview 604 and the button 640 below displays the words “new view.”

A clinician may change the “Charts” view parameters associated with any of the “Charts” views. A clinician may access any of the buttons 634-642 to select the above “Charts” view 604A-604E. Once a “Charts” view has been selected, the “Charts” view will indicate selection and the associated button 634-642 below the selected “Charts” view will display the words “current view.” (not depicted). As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any method of indicating selection can be utilized, including but limited to, changing the background color, changing the border, changing the font, or any other method known in the art.

The layout configuration window 600 also includes an Accept button 632. When a clinician is satisfied with the layout of the “Charts” view parameters in the preview 604, the clinician accesses the Accept button 632. Once the Accept button 632 has been accessed, the “Charts” view parameters occupying the preview 604 will be reflected as the “Charts” parameters in the underlying graphical display 700. The actual patient data corresponding to the new “Charts” view parameter will then be displayed in the underlying graphical display.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, graphical representations of some parameters will lend themselves more easily to certain chart view parameter positions than other parameters. For example, one “Chart” views parameter may not be visually pleasing if represented in the elongated, top “Charts” view parameter position of the selected fourth “Charts” view 604D from the left. In one embodiment, the GUI may display a warning to a clinician before the clinician implements certain “Charts” view parameters in certain “Charts” view parameter positions. In another embodiment, the clinician may be blocked from selecting certain parameters for certain “Charts” view parameter positions.

FIG. 7 represents an exemplary underlying graphical display 700 presented to the clinician when the “switch” button 302 has been accessed. As discussed above, the “Big Numbers” parameters 714 are located to the upper left of the display while the “Patient Data” parameters 716 are located in the upper right. Furthermore, additional “Big Numbers” parameters can be viewed by accessing the pull down arrow 702. Additional “Patient Data” parameters can be viewed by accessing the scrollbar 718. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the “Big Numbers” parameters and “Patient Data” parameters are not limited to the upper left and upper right corners of the screen, respectively. Rather, any number of “Patient Data” and “Big Numbers” parameters can be configured for display anywhere on the screen. Moreover, new tabs on the layout configuration window can be created to enable display of new parameters.

The layout configuration interface can provide underlying graphical display 700. The exemplary graphical display 700 depicts the same “Charts” view 710 as selected in exemplary layout configuration window 600. Like the preview 604 in the layout configuration window 600, the selected charts view 604D has one large chart with four charts, arranged in rows of two, located below it.

The layout configuration interface can also provide a “Quick Charts” view menu 720. The “Quick Charts” view menu 720 displays the currently configured “Charts” views 704-712. In the exemplary “Charts” view menu 720, five configured “Charts” views are displayed. The current “Chart” view 710 in the graphical display is indicated by the words “current view” in the “Charts” view menu 720. As will be appreciated, any combination of colors, words, symbols, etc. can be used to indicate the current view.

As will be appreciated, a clinician can change the current “Charts” view of the graphical display 700 by accessing a different “Charts” view in the “Charts” view menu. A new “Charts” view can be displayed by accessing one of the other four configured “Charts” views (i.e. 704-708 or 712) in the “Chart” view menu 720. If another configured “Charts” view is selected, the underlying graphical display is immediately changed to reflect the newly selected “Charts” view and the “Quick Charts” view menu 720 is automatically closed. By using the “Quick Charts” view menu 720, a clinician can select a currently configured “Charts” view 704-710 but cannot change the parameters included in the positions of any “Charts” view 704-710 layouts. In order to change the parameters in the “Charts” view 704-710 layouts, a clinician must access the Charts tab 602 of layout configuration window 600.

The “Quick Charts” view menu 720 also includes a “Layout” button 722. The “Layout” button 722 allows a clinician to switch between the “Quick Charts” view menu 720 and the layout configuration windows 300, 500, and 600. The “Charts” view menu also includes a “Close” button 724. The “Close” button 724 allows a clinician to close the “Charts” view menu 720.

As will be appreciated, a clinician cannot change the configuration of available “Charts” views 704-712, “Big Number” parameters 714 in the un-expanded “Big Number” toolbar, “Big Number” parameters 502-530 in the expanded “Big Number” window, or “Patient Data” parameters 716 from the underlying graphical display 700 The displayed views and parameters are preconfigured. In order to change the configuration of the available “Charts” views 704-712, “Big Number” parameters 714 in the un-expanded “Big Number” toolbar, “Big Number” parameters 502-530 in the expanded “Big Number” window, or “Patient Data” parameters 716, the clinician must first access the “Layout” button 722 and then change the views and or parameters using the layout configuration window 300, 500, and 600 as discussed above.

It will be clear that the systems and methods described herein are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems within this specification may be implemented in many manners and as such is not to be limited by the foregoing exemplified embodiments and examples. In other words, functional elements being performed by a single or multiple components, in various combinations of hardware and software, and individual functions can be distributed among software applications at either the client or server level. In this regard, any number of the features of the different embodiments described herein may be combined into one single embodiment and alternative embodiments having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible.

While various embodiments have been described for purposes of this disclosure, various changes and modifications may be made which are well within the scope of the present invention. Numerous other changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the disclosure and as defined in the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A user interface for providing layout configuration for a graphical display associated with a ventilator, the ventilator configured with a computer, the computer comprising a processor and a memory, the memory storing computer executable instructions that, when executed, provide a user interface including a graphical user interface for accepting commands and for displaying information, the user interface comprising: at least one window associated with the user interface; and elements within the at least one window comprising: a first set of selection elements for selecting a layout category; a second set of selection elements, each of the second set of selection elements indicating a parameter position within a layout associated with a selected one the first set of selections elements and a first parameter currently associated with the parameter position and a second parameter selected to replace the first parameter.
 2. The user interface of claim 1, wherein each layout category corresponds to a set of data on the graphical display of the graphical user interface.
 3. The user interface of claim 1, wherein the first set of selection elements comprise at least one of: a tab for selecting a patient data layout category; a tab for selecting a big numbers layout category; and a tab for selecting a charts layout category.
 4. The user interface of claim 1, wherein the second set of selection elements includes a preview of the set of data on the graphical display, the preview comprising a currently displayed parameter for each parameter position.
 5. The user interface of claim 1, wherein the second set of selection elements further comprises one or more possible replacement parameters.
 6. The user interface of claim 1, further comprising a third set of selection elements comprising a scroll bar for viewing the second set of selection elements.
 7. The user interface of claim 6, wherein upon selection of the scroll bar a first description associated with one of: the first parameter, second parameter, or one or more possible replacement parameters is displayed.
 8. The user interface of claim 7, wherein moving the scroll bar displays a second description associated with a different one of: the first parameter, second parameter, or one or more possible replacement parameters is displayed.
 9. The user interface of claim 1, wherein when the first parameter is the same as the second parameter a duplication warning is displayed.
 10. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions that when executed provide a user interface for providing layout configuration for a graphical display associated with a ventilator, the user interface comprising: at least one window associated with the user interface; and elements within the at least one window comprising: a first set of selection elements for selecting a layout category; a second set of selection elements, each of the second set of selection elements indicating a parameter position within a layout associated with a selected one the first set of selections elements and a first parameter currently associated with the parameter position and a second parameter selected to replace the first parameter.
 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein each layout category corresponds to a set of data on the graphical display of the graphical user interface.
 12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, wherein the first set of selection elements comprise at least one of: a tab for selecting a patient data layout category; a tab for selecting a big numbers layout category; and a tab for selecting a charts layout category.
 13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, wherein the second set of selection elements includes a preview of the set of data on the graphical display, the preview comprising a currently displayed parameter for each parameter position.
 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes one or more of: RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, solid state memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage and magnetic storage devices.
 15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, further comprising a third set of selection elements comprising a scroll bar for viewing the second set of selection elements.
 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein upon selection of the scroll bar a first description associated with one of: the first parameter, second parameter, or one or more possible replacement parameters is displayed.
 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein moving the scroll bar displays a second description associated with a different one of: the first parameter, second parameter, or one or more possible replacement parameters is displayed.
 18. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein when the first parameter is the same as the second parameter a duplication warning is displayed.
 19. A ventilatory system configured with a computer, the computer comprising a processor and a memory, the memory storing computer executable instructions that, when executed, provide a user interface for providing layout configuration for a graphical display associated with a ventilator, comprising: at least one window associated with the user interface; and elements within the at least one window comprising: a first set of selection elements for selecting a layout category; a second set of selection elements, each of the second set of selection elements indicating a parameter position within a layout associated with a selected one the first set of selections elements and a first parameter currently associated with the parameter position and a second parameter selected to replace the first parameter.
 20. The ventilator system of claim 19, wherein when the first parameter is the same as the second parameter a duplication warning is displayed. 